Qatar advances vision for seamless terrestrial and satellite connectivity at MWC26 Doha

Doha, Qatar: Qatar has pledged to build a robust, sustainable and internationally competitive digital economy through collaboration and advanced connectivity. On the first day of MWC26 Doha, Communications Minister HE Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai detailed the nation's strides in merging terrestrial and satellite networks, bolstering digital resilience and driving innovation, investment and economic growth.

The 'Accelerating Cooperation for a Connected Digital Future' panel discussed bolstering international collaboration in creating secure, dependable and resilient communication networks. Key stakeholders included Kazakhstan's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development HE Zhaslan Madiyev, Estonia's Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs H E Liisa-Ly Pakosta, Malaysia's Minister of Communications H E Ahmad Fahmi Fadzil, and Nigeria's Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy H E Dr. Bosun Tijani.

Moderated by ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin, the discussion underscored Qatar's experience in developing advanced digital infrastructure, particularly the integration of terrestrial and satellite communications for enhanced service continuity and support of cloud computing, AI and digital services.

Qatar aims to not only enhance telecommunications networks but also establish a resilient and globally competitive digital economy. By unifying terrestrial and satellite networks, Qatar can offer additional connectivity options, reinforce the continuity of essential services and economic activities, and open up new avenues for investment and innovation.

The Minister also highlighted Qatar's advancements in satellite connectivity and the services provided by telecom operators, benefiting sectors like energy, aviation, maritime transport and logistics.

Challenges in integrating these networks include spectrum management, network interoperability and protecting critical infrastructure. Qatar is tackling these obstacles through long-term planning, progressive regulations, public-private partnerships and global cooperation. Regarding Qatar's Digital Agenda 2030, the Minister emphasized the significance of converting digital infrastructure investments into tangible economic value, fostering innovation, enhancing productivity, attracting investments and creating opportunities for business growth and economic development.

HE Zhaslan Madiyev of Kazakhstan highlighted the country's extensive territory (2.7 million square kilometres) and low population density (8 people per square kilometre), posing significant connectivity challenges. Despite these hurdles, Kazakhstan has established a sophisticated digital government ecosystem with most public services accessible online. Madiyev mentioned the country's cashless economy, with over 90% of transactions conducted digitally, underscoring the importance of reliable connectivity.

He also unveiled plans for fibre-optic infrastructure to reach over 3,000 more villages, aiming for 90% of villages to have fibre-optic access by the end of next year. Additionally, Kazakhstan is piloting a direct-to-cell solution with telecom operator Beeline and a Trans-Caspian Fibre Optic project with Azerbaijani partners to diversify internet traffic and improve network resilience.

Meanwhile, Estonia's Minister of Justice and Digital Affairs H E Liisa-Ly Pakosta discussed Estonia's successful digital transformation, boasting 260 AI-based services and an ongoing expansion of their utilization. Pakosta stressed that the true challenge lies in ensuring equitable access to and benefits from digital services.